Our team continues to be here for you and your cherished pets. We are OPEN and are now able to provide a wide range of services. To learn more about the changes we have implemented in response to COVID-19 and what to expect during your next visit, click here.

Senior Cat Care

What are the stages of a senior cat’s life? How to spot signs of aging?

Signs of aging can start as early as 6 or 7 years old and can include pain due to arthritis, muscle mass loss, weight loss, decreased hearing or sight, and difficulty grooming or playing. Look for decreased grooming or over-grooming and hair loss, dull or matted hair coat, less flexibility when grooming or moving/sleeping, urinating or defecating outside the litter box, difficulty jumping up or down off objects or stairs, personality changes including increased aggression or hiding, and less interest in playing or socializing.

My senior cat is losing weight, what can I do?

It is best to bring your cat in for an exam and talk to your veterinarian. There are some simple blood tests that can be run to rule out common health issues.

What are some tips for how to care for my senior cat?

Talk to your veterinarian if you have any concerns or see any changes in your cat’s appearance or behaviour. Ensure your cat isn’t losing weight, drinking or peeing more, and get prompt veterinarian care if you see any of these changes. Keep your cat at a healthy weight and keep your cat active.

What are some common health issues experienced by senior cats?

Arthritis, kidney disease, hyperthyroidism (losing weight despite a good appetite), diabetes, and some types of cancer are common health issues of aging cats. Bloodwork can be done to rule out most of these diseases.

Why is my senior cat having behavioural issues?

Loss of sight, hearing, and muscle mass and pain can cause behaviour changes. Older animals experience types of dementia as well. Ensure your cat has a thorough physical exam and blood work to rule out common diseases that can cause behavioural changes.

With recent changes to restrictions on businesses, we are pleased to advise that effective May 15, 2020 some restrictions on veterinary practices have been lifted. Based on these changes, below are some important updates to our operating policies.

Continue our "closed waiting room" policy to protect our clients and staff. When you arrive, please remain outside the hospital and use your cell phone to call 519.428.2630. We will take a history of your pet's health and discuss any concerns. A staff member will meet you at the front vestibule to bring your pet into the hospital for an examination. The Veterinarian will call you to discuss the recommended treatment plan. After your appointment, a staff member will meet you at the front vestibule to return your pet and take care of any needed medications and payment.

Continue the use of credit cards as the preferred payment method.

Continue with curbside pickup of food and medication. Please call us when you arrive to pick up your order, but do not enter the hospital. We will take the payment over the phone and a team member will meet you at the side door for your order pick up.

You can also use our online store and are having your order delivered directly to your home. To place an order through our online store, visit our website and click on "Online Store".

3. ONLINE CONSULTATIONS ARE AVAILABLE

If you wish to connect with a veterinarian via message, phone or video, visit our website and follow the "Online Consultation" link.